Rosslyn shares her equestrian life and tells us about leaving her horse property for a well-deserved retirement life.
After decades of lovingly caring for horses, Rosslyn Richardson is enjoying a low-maintenance retirement life. But she’s still getting plenty of horse time via her children, who’ve inherited her love for the majestic animals.
Living an equestrian life
Rosslyn’s love of horses began in the paddocks of her childhood farm in the Adelaide Hills. She recalls idyllic days spending time with the horses and laments, ‘There were a few years where I lost contact with my horses. When I went away to school as we did in those days, I had very little contact with horses.’
After finishing school, Ros studied nursing at the Royal Adelaide Hospital. Once she’d married and had her children, Ros could only see her beloved horses on visits back to the farm.
But continuing a life around horses was never in question. Ros and her husband Peter bought their first property at Yatala Vale, where they had horses and ponies. A few friends kept horses there, too. The more, the merrier!
Their property also hosted Riding for the Disabled Australia, a not-for-profit program. And Ros delighted in assisting their work.
An integral member of the equestrian community
In the 70s, Ros’ love of horses made her an integral member of the South Australian equestrian community. She served as President of the Pegasus Pony Club and joined the Equestrian SA Board. Ros was also the inaugural chair of the Coaching Council and held the position for 10 years.
Ros studied an equine studies course at TAFE to assess its suitability for the industry and ended up being a lecturer in the subject.
‘I was involved in the 1986 World Championships at Gawler as a member of The Friends of Gawler. And on the organising committee, of which I was awarded life membership.’
Eventually, the world championships moved to Adelaide to become the Adelaide International Horse Trials (AIHT). And the Friends of Gawler became The Equestrian Support Hub. Ros served on the AIHT board until 2004 and is still the chair of the support hub.
She also ran the 2005 Gawler Horse Spectacular, an event including every discipline, from tent pegging to the Pony Club International Games championship.
After this, Ros continued to run their agistment property and coach equestrian disciplines.
Finally in 2013, she became chair of the Naracoorte Horse Trials, an event where every Australian Olympian rides.
Time for a well-deserved retirement
After a life dedicated to horses and equestrian events, Ros and Peter bought their house in the idyllic Elliot Gardens. While they were sad to leave their property and lifestyle, they’re still involved with horses through the work of their children.
‘Our son hosts the Two Wells Pony Club one-day event on his property. And our daughter is involved in the Naracoorte Canoe Tree Horse Trials and Lockington events. She’s also on the Equestrian South Australia committee and a state selector.’
While the family’s dedication to equestrian life continues, Ros and Peter are thoroughly enjoying their new lifestyle. And they love how they don't have to worry about the big things anymore.
‘Our new lifestyle is great! We can take part in as many activities as we like. The flexibility of village life is wonderful.’
Looking forward to many happy years at Elliot Gardens
‘Our new lifestyle is great! We can take part in as many activities as we like. Or we can choose to do as we please. The flexibility of village life is wonderful,’ Ros said.
‘We’ve both joined the Elliot Gardens golfing group and travelled to Port Fairy for golf. And we’ve been to Point Turton with the anglers for a fishing trip. We've also agreed to play bowls, which we've never done before,’ she said.
Ros is also putting her brilliant organising skills to good use as the chair of the catering committee. And Peter has joined the resident’s committee.
With so much to do and be part of, they’re both looking forward to many happy years at Elliot Gardens.
Learn more about Elliot Gardens, SA.
For more information about the lifestyle and support offered at our retirement villages, call our customer service team on 1800 550 550.
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